New England Patriots: 53-Man Roster Projection, Recap Of Moves
By Cyrus Geller
Aug 28, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) and quarterback Tom Brady (12) sit on the bench during the second half against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Panthers 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Quarterback: (2) Tom Brady, Jimmy Garoppolo
Brady’s back.
Running Back: (5) James White, Jonas Gray, Dion Lewis, Travaris Cadet, Brandon Bolden
Blount doesn’t count against the roster for week one, so once he comes back, someone will have to go. I am keeping Cadet on the roster largely because of Blount’s suspension, but also because if he can get healthy, he is a good player. Although it will take a lot to leap over White, Lewis, and Cadet on the depth chart.
Wide Receiver: (5) Julian Edelman, Brandon LaFell, Danny Amendola, Reggie Wayne, Aaron Dobson
I’m giving Dobson the edge over Chris Harper because obviously Dobson is the more talented player, but also because the Pats invested too high of a draft pick to give up on him this quickly. However if he can’t get it together after this season, New England will probably move on.
Tight End: (3) Rob Gronkowski, Scott Chandler, Michael Hoomanawanui
Not too much change here. Assuming everyone stays healthy, the Pats will dominate at tight end once again throughout the 2015 season.
Offensive Tackle: (4) Nate Solder, Sebastian Vollmer, Cameron Fleming, Marcus Cannon
Solder and Vollmer are two of the best in the league, and Fleming and Cannon are capable backups. I wouldn’t want them starting, but as second stringers they are fine.
Offensive Guard: (4) Tre’ Jackson, Ryan Wendell, Shaq Mason, Josh Kline
The Patriots will probably roll with the rookie Jackson as a starter, which I like, because he is a talented kid, but there will be some growing pains.
Center: (2) Bryan Stork
Stork, Stork, and more Stork.
Next: Projecting the Defense